The president must also seek to improve the economy of a country in which 40% of people live below the poverty line.

Analysts say Kyrgyzstan will have to develop industries such as tourism, hydro-electric power and mining if it is to create new jobs for its 5m citizens.

In his first post-election comments, Mr Bakiev questioned the need for the US to continue to have an airbase in Kyrgyzstan.

The Pentagon has since been told it can keep its base in Kyrgyzstan - but only for as long as it is needed for operations in Afghanistan. US-led forces have been stationed at the site near the capital, Bishkek, since 2001.

Ahead of the elections, Mr Bakiev's only significant political rival was thought to be Felix Kulov.

The two men agreed to a power-sharing pact, by which Mr Kulov would serve as prime minister if Mr Bakiev became president.